Mother Mourns Death of Cyclist Son, Sends Message

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INDEPENDENCE, Mo. -- One day after a metro cyclist was hit and killed, his mother said she fears it could happen again if drivers aren't keeping a watchful eye on who is on the road. Michael Forbes was hit by a car while riding on a rural roadway Saturday for a charity bike ride.

The 48-year-old took off down the gravel driveway from his mother's home as a part of the Freedom from Cancer Ride.

"He didn't wake me up, so I never got to say goodbye to him, actually," said Bonnie Lockyer, mother.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol said Lockyer's only son was struck by a car while he was riding on U.S. 24 near County Road H. near Buckner, Mo.

"I just couldn't realize he was dead, I mean I still don't realize he's dead," Lockyer said.

Troopers said Forbes' rear wheel was hit by 32-year=old Scott Mocley. Mocley told troopers he looked down at his dashboard for a second before the accident. Forbes was declared dead at the scene.

Lockyer said these types of accidents happen all too often. Lockyer said Forbes' wife, Patty Forbes, is also a cyclist. Lockyer said her daughter-in-law is still recovering from a near-death collision.

"Last year, about 13 months ago, his wife was hit behind the house here on Truman Rd. by a truck." Lockyer said. It is why Forbes' fellow rider, Matt Maher, said drivers need to keep a watchful eye for anyone on the road.

"Unattended driving, aggressive driving, can end up really devastating a lot of people's lives," Maher said.

Forbes' death means his fellow community of riders, his wife, two step children and mother will have to move on without him.

"He lost his dad at an early age at 57, so he kind of thought he was suppose to be my protector, I guess," Lockyer said.

His friends and family said they can only hope the tragic loss of the man they call genuine and generous will help keep others from the same fate.

Troopers said Forbes started the race early by himself because he wanted to get back early to help with the actual race. His friends and family said they are trying to establish a fund to help his family with funeral costs.

Troopers also said as a part of their ongoing investigation they will subpoena Mocley's cell phone records. They said if he was on the phone he could be charged with careless driving or even involuntary manslaughter. No word on those possible charges.